Auckland direct flights begin for 2014This year's Air New Zealand flights between Auckland and the Sunshine Coast have now begun. It’s a longer season than previous years (30 June–26 October) and the record number of 42 scheduled flights will provide a $132 million boost to the Coast’s economy. Traditionally a significant number of New Zealand visitors stay at, or visit, the Coolum and district area – it’s a great bonus for our local businesses during a quieter trading period.

Ahead for Division 9There was some good news for the Coolum and districts area in this year’s budget, with substantial funding allocated for a number of local projects. These include the Coolum Civic Centre, the Coolum Sports Complex and Jack Morgan Park.

Dinner with the local LionsIt was great to be invited to the changeover dinners for the Lions Club of Peregian and the Lions and Lionesses Club of Coolum Beach. These were held at the Peregian Springs Country Club and the Mount Coolum Golf Club respectively. The combined efforts of these clubs have provided a helping hand to many people in the community via donations totalling tens of thousands of dollars. A big thanks to the committees and membership of these clubs for their dedication and ongoing support of our community.

Clean energy at Coolum LibraryCouncil recently conducted a series of free Clean Energy Transition information sessions at the region’s libraries. The presentation included information on the solar farm at Valdora, council’s use of solar for its business, and its bio-diesel fleet cars. I attended the Coolum session and it was terrific to see such an informed and inquisitive audience.

Beach Bash – Stumers accessThe beach access to the dog-off leash area at Stumers Creek, Coolum Beach (off Stumers Creek Road) will be closed on the weekend of July 19 and 20 due to the Beach Bash event. You can still access the dog off-leash area via the beach access 67 or 68. You may spot Sunshine Coast Council officers in the area in the lead up to and during the event letting beach goers know about the temporary changes.